Rep. Kelly Breen

Maddy summaryThis law requires every public high school in Michigan to offer at least one computer science course starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The courses must meet state educational standards and be listed on the school's catalog, with a preference for in-person instruction unless a school operates entirely virtually. The legislation defines computer science as a field focused on creating new technologies rather than just using them, ensuring the curriculum covers principles, design, and societal impact.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the Michigan Energy Assistance Program to ensure low-income households receive financial help with energy bills. It mandates that the state department simplify the application process into a single form and requires assistance to prioritize vulnerable populations. The law also directs providers to offer services that help participants budget for energy costs and connect them with weatherization programs to reduce energy waste. Additionally, the bill updates reporting requirements, shifting the deadline for annual program distribution reports to March 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill adds a new section to Michigan's landlord-tenant laws to provide specific legal remedies for individuals who face housing discrimination based on their source of income. It allows people who believe they have been discriminated against to file a civil lawsuit in circuit court to seek injunctive relief or financial damages. The potential damages are capped at either the actual injury and loss suffered or three times the monthly rent, whichever is lower, and also cover court costs and attorney fees. This legislation only takes effect if it is passed together with two related Senate bills, SB 0205 and SB 0206.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the procedures for disposing of firearms seized by law enforcement in Michigan. It requires the State Police director to either auction the weapons to eligible buyers, destroy them, or use another lawful method approved by the director. Before taking action, the director must check if the gun was reported lost or stolen and give the owner 30 days to claim it, while also posting a public notice with the firearm's details. The legislation also grants the department immunity from lawsuits if they follow these disposal rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Michigan Sentencing Commission within the state legislative council to provide oversight and recommendations on criminal sentencing policies. The commission will consist of 15 members representing diverse perspectives, including legislators, judges, law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, victims' advocates, formerly incarcerated individuals, and mental health professionals. Members are appointed by legislative leaders and the governor, with specific terms ranging from two to four years, and the chairperson must have a professional background in criminal law. The legislation also establishes rules for filling vacancies and requires certain members to declare their political affiliation or lack thereof.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's school safety laws to rename the existing School Safety Commission to the School Safety and Mental Health Commission, effective January 1, 2025. The legislation establishes a new commission within the Department of State Police and outlines a specific process for appointing its members, including representatives from law enforcement, education, mental health, special education, and the student community. Appointments are made by the governor based on lists submitted by legislative leaders, and the commission is tasked with developing statewide strategies to reduce youth suicide and support students facing behavioral health challenges. Additionally, the bill requires the commission to meet at least quarterly, maintain an online resource hub, and submit an annual report to state committees by October 30 each year.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new legal framework in Michigan to handle the division of "heirs property," which is real estate owned by multiple relatives who inherited it without a formal agreement. It establishes specific rules for courts to follow when these properties are contested, requiring judges to first determine if the land qualifies as heirs property before deciding how to split it. Under the new provisions, courts must order professional appraisals to set a fair market value unless all owners agree on a price or the cost of an appraisal is deemed too high. The legislation also mandates that plaintiffs post a sign on the property during legal proceedings to notify potential heirs and requires that any appointed evaluators be impartial and not involved in the case.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all schools in Michigan to establish a behavioral threat assessment and management team by October 1, 2026. These teams must include a school administrator, a mental health professional, and a law enforcement official to identify concerning behavior, distinguish between credible and non-credible threats, and create supportive plans for students. The state police will provide annual training materials and resources to help schools implement these safety measures effectively.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the authority of Michigan's courts of appeals to admit new lawyers to the state bar, a power previously held only by the supreme court and circuit courts. Under the new rules, applicants in each court of appeals judicial district can now be admitted directly by that specific court instead of having to go through the supreme court. The legislation also clarifies that these admission proceedings are civil matters and outlines how clerks must handle the oath-taking, certificate issuance, and record-keeping for admitted attorneys. Additionally, the law requires courts to promptly send copies of admission orders, suspensions, disbarments, and reinstatements to the supreme court clerk and the State Bar of Michigan. These changes take effect on April 2, 2025, streamlining the process for individuals seeking to practice law in Michigan.

Maddy summaryThis law requires the Michigan State Police to destroy any firearms that are collected and turned over to the department through municipal gun buyback programs. Starting April 2, 2025, the department must ensure every part of these weapons is destroyed and is prohibited from reselling them. The rule applies to any weapon designed to fire projectiles using an explosive charge, such as guns, and directly affects local governments that run buyback events and the state agency responsible for disposing of the collected items.